By Dianabasi Effiong
The Governor of Cross River State, Sen. Bassey Otu, has paid a condolence visit to the family of late Sen Joseph Wayas in Abuja.
Accompanied by some leaders across the three Senatorial districts in the state, the governor said his visit was to pay respect to a worthy son of the State.
Sen. Joseph Wayas passed away on November 30, 2021, at the age of 80 after battling a prolonged illness. He served as the President of the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria from October 1979 to December 1983.
During his visit, while condoling the family, Gov. Otu highlighted late Sen. Joseph Wayas’ significant contributions as a politician.
He acknowledged the legacies and values that the late senator left behind, which continues to serve as inspiration and guide to others.
“In this ever-changing world, there is a time for everything. There is a day to be born and a day to join our creator. While we mourn his departure, we find solace in the enduring legacies and values he has bequeathed to us,” Gov. Otu remarked.
“Sen. Joseph Wayas was a towering figure in Nigerian politics, and his impact extended throughout the country”. Gov. Otu conveyed the collective respect and admiration of all Crossriverians, both at home and abroad, to the late former Senate President.
Addressing the wife of the late Senate President; Mrs. Ishaka Wayas, Gov. Otu empathized with the challenges of coping with such a loss. He acknowledged the difficulty of enduring and persevering during this period, “Let me encourage his wife, it is not easy to sustain and maintain in periods like this, because you can only understand the pains if you are wearing the shoes. The Almighty God shall continue to be your strength.”
“We will continue to hold Sen Joseph Wayas and his family dear to our hearts, even in death. We want to assure you that Cross River State stands with you and will support you through this difficult journey,” Gov. Otu assured the grieving family.
